Sri Lanka - Day One Arrival
The flight was just over 10 hours and 40 minutes, and even in economy, comfort was a priority. The 32-inch seats had plenty of legroom and reclined enough to make the journey surprisingly relaxing. We were served two lovely meals, dinner and breakfast and the in-flight entertainment had everything from new releases to classic favourites. The time passed quickly, and before we knew it, we were descending into Sri Lanka.
From landing into Sri Lanka the whole experience was smooth, from clearing immigration and collecting bags, it was all stress free!
A warm welcome from Colombus Tours greeted us at the airport, setting the tone for what promises to be an unforgettable journey. There’s something so special about that first moment in a new country the change in air, the friendly faces, the sense of excitement that something wonderful is about to unfold.
The transfer to the hotel from the airport was approximately 40 mins, we travelled through Colombo with a little stop at the independence memorial hall, a beautiful place where the Sri Lankans, celebrate the independence of Ceylon in 1948. A prominent building that is designed with prominent lions placed around the building and lavish symbols to recognise the islands rich history and political freedom.
Our home for the first night was the Kingsbury Hotel, right in the heart of Colombo. It’s perfectly located close to shops, bars, and restaurants, and just a short walk from the World Trade Centre. The hotel has this elegant, polished charm that immediately makes you feel at ease.
The infinity pool is absolutely stunning a serene spot overlooking the city and ocean where you can easily lose track of time. In the evening, we headed to the vibrant ground-floor bar to watch the sun dip below the horizon with a drink in hand the sky glowing in gold and coral tones. Later, we took the lift up to the rooftop lounge bar, where the Colombo skyline twinkled all around us as we enjoyed a cocktail. It was the perfect way to ease into island life.
In the evening, we visited the Cinnamon Grand Hotel, one of Colombo’s most renowned luxury spots. I loved exploring the grand reception area, which felt both impressive and inviting, and wandering through to discover the many restaurants hidden within each one offering a unique atmosphere and menu. It’s definitely somewhere I would recommend as a city hotel option.
We rounded off the day with dinner at Nuga Gama, the Cinnamon Grand’s village-style restaurant. The setting was magical — lanterns glowing softly, the scent of spices in the air, and the gentle hum of conversation all around. The food was authentic and full of flavour, served with the warmest hospitality. As this was our first night we were joined by the team of Colombus tours a chance to meet and chat with the staff that help us to create the all important itineraries and the people that we entrust our clients with, It was lovely to meet them all and to also to have guidance on all the fabulous Sri Lankan dishes that had been prepared for us, a great first evening and a real introduction to our trip.
Upon returning to the Kingsman hotel it was time to check out the rooftop lounge, the perfect way to end a long day, sipping a cocktail with the skyline behind us.
Breakfast the next morning was a real treat a lavish buffet featuring everything from tropical fruits and pastries to Sri Lankan specialties and freshly cooked eggs. I could happily have lingered there all morning!
I already felt completely enchanted by Sri Lanka the warmth of the people, the laid-back elegance of the city, and the sense of calm that seems to flow through everything. If this is just day one, I can’t wait to see what the rest of the journey brings.